The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Corporal Joseph P. Spadafore, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Battery A, 98th Antiaircraft Artillery Gun Battalion, 68th Antiaircraft Artillery Group, at Spanard, Alaska, on 25 June 1953. When Corporal Spadafore heard cries for help from a companion who had fallen to the bottom of a 50-foot well, containing approximately 40 inches of icy water, he recognized immediately that his companion was in dire distress. Unhesitatingly, he descended a ladder to the bottom of the well. Being partially overcome by carbon monoxide fumes and the shock of the icy water in the well, he was unsuccessful in the attempt to rescue his companion. With great presence of mind and using extremely good judgment, he then proceeded up the ladder to save his own life. He climbed within 6 feet of the top before becoming overcome by carbon monoxide fumes and had to be pulled to safety by rescuers awaiting at the top of the well. Corporal Spadafore’s prompt and courageous action, with complete disregard for his personal safety, reflects great credit on himself and the military service.